10 November 2025
Council has completed its review of the Grey Street “Streets for People” trial and will now consider future layout options based on independent analysis, technical evidence, and significant community feedback.
The 12-month trial, which concluded on 31 July 2025, tested a range of street design elements to improve safety and accessibility for all road users.
Funded 90% by Waka Kotahi and delivered in partnership with Tairāwhiti Adventure Trust, the trial introduced traffic-calming features, pedestrian crossings, and protected cycleways between Childers Road roundabout and the skate park.
Council Director Community Lifelines Tim Barry said the trial was always intended to be temporary and to inform future decisions.
“This was a trial – and trials are about learning what works, what doesn’t and where the community stands,” said Mr Barry.
“We’ve listened carefully. While we’ve heard that many people value the safer crossings and lower speeds, we’ve also heard clearly that the design caused frustration, especially around parking, signage and day-to-day usability.”
An independent review by Urban Connection Limited confirmed the trial was effective in reducing vehicle speeds and improving pedestrian safety. However, it also identified issues with maintenance, accessibility and the functionality of the cycling infrastructure.
Of the more than 1,100 submissions received during the trial, 89% of respondents said they didn’t feel the trial had met its objectives.
Four layout options have now been developed to guide decision-making:
- Do nothing – retain the current layout.
- Full reversal – return to the pre-trial street design.
- Pedestrian-priority – remove cycle lanes but retain crossings and calming features.
- Shared path – restore parking and create a shared footpath for pedestrians and cyclists.
Option 4 – the shared path – achieved the highest overall performance across safety, accessibility, parking, and maintenance criteria, but all options require further design and costing before final decisions can be made.
The decision on the preferred option will be made by the newly elected Council on Wednesday 12 November.
“We’re committed to getting this right – not just for the people who use Grey Street every day, but for our whole community,” said Mr Barry.
“This review gives the new Council an evidence-based foundation to move forward.”
View the full report to Council
Tune into the Council meeting on Wednesday
For all the background about the project